About Rye Bayside Beaches

Rye is situated on the popular holiday location of Mornington Peninsula, nestled between Tootgarook and Blairgowrie. The main beach facing Port Phillip Bay provides safe sandy beaches, a jetty and accommodations. The summer carnival in Rye is host to the annual sand sculptures, displaying the talents of artists as they carved fantastic sight out of tons of sand.

Rye: Between Ocean and Bay

Rye is set on the southern tip of the Mornington Peninsula, so visitors get the benefits of both quiet bay beaches as well as rougher ocean waves. While many families come to Rye for the waterfront action, golfers, surfers and spa enthusiasts also find what they are looking for in the coastal community, just 90 km from Melbourne. There are numerous holiday rental options in Rye, including beach houses facing the bay or the ocean, private retreats a short drive from national parks and stately homes near the Peninsula’s famous spas.

Where to Surf and Swim in Rye

Rye’s unique location on the Mornington Peninsula ensures that travellers have access to both swimming and surf beaches. If you’re visiting with family and are looking for safe, calm waters, head to Bay Beach. This stretch of sand is favoured by couples with children, fishermen and sunbathers.

Water sports enthusiasts, especially surfers, will prefer Rye’s Ocean Beach. This beach known for its strong undercurrents. Here, you will mostly find surfers, kayakers and jet-skiers.

If you’re looking for an aquatic escape beyond the beach, you can spend some time at Rye’s hot springs. Soak in the waters which are constantly, naturally heated at around 50 C.

Where to Play Golf in Rye

Rye is a favourite holiday hotspot for serious and recreational golfers, with multiple courses in the area. The two closest golf clubs to town are Moonah Links and The Dunes. Moonah Links, a par 72 course with two separate courses, also features a restaurant and offers prime views over the surrounding bush. Test your skills on the two world-class courses, the Open Course and the Legends Course. The Dunes Golf Links is a less competitive environment, with courses for golfers of all skill levels. As the name would suggest, this golf club was built on sand dunes

Where to Indulge in Rye

Rye is strategically located for those travellers seeking ultimate holiday indulgence. A short drive out of town will get you to the Peninsula Hot Springs. This spa has made a name for itself across Victoria. You will be able to book a massage or manicure, in addition to soaking in the healing waters. Take in views of the surrounding landscape as you unwind. The Hot Springs’ restaurant serves healthy treats and fresh juices, should you need refreshments.

The Mornington Peninsula is also known for its award-winning wineries. If you’re traveling as a couple or with a group of friends, head to Cups Estate Winery for an afternoon of wine tasting, paired with cheeses, tapas and desserts. If you have enough time, you can also organize a self-guided tour of the Peninsula’s many vineyards or join a group tour and learn about the area’s wine production from a local guide.

Where to Soak Up the Scenery

One of the best ways to explore Rye is to ditch the car and opt for horse riding instead. Contact Gunnamatta Trail Rides to take out a horse for the day. You will be able to ride on the beach, in the bush and through local reserves. There are also ponies for children to ride. The operator has horses for everyone from beginners to advanced riders, so don’t worry if you’ve never been on a horse before.

There are several national parks close to Rye. Notably, travellers can discover Mornington Peninsula National Park’s numerous offerings. Hike along a variety of trails, swim or surf in the beaches at the park’s edge or have a family picnic surrounded by local flora. The park is home to an old lighthouse, which is open to the public.

How to Get to Rye

Rye is situated just over an hour from Melbourne, creating an ideal escape for an overnight, weekend, week or longer. The easiest way to get to Rye is to drive from Victoria’s capital. However, if you don’t have a vehicle, you can take the train from Melbourne to Frankston before switching to a bus. This journey takes double the time, and the bus passes infrequently, so make sure you plan your trip accordingly.